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A review by theladydoor
Not Just a Witch by Eva Ibbotson
4.0
This short novel was a lovely, quick read about a young animal witch named Heckie. She moves to a new village and soon begins a quest to do Good by turning evil people into animals. After they turn into animals she takes care of them and usually gives them to the local zoo, because that animal is no longer an evil being, it's just an animal. Then, Heckie's animal-creating skills come to the attention of a slimy villain, and it's up to her young friends, Daniel and Sumi, to save the day.
I absolutely love the way Eva Ibbotson writes and creates characters. Her witches (and other people) can be good or bad, ugly or beautiful, kind or ghastly, but they are always funny. The children she writes are clever and earnest, and are given real responsibility and agency. I think this book would be excellent for any kid to read, they could really put themselves in Sumi or Daniel's shoes as they try to help their friend.
I absolutely love the way Eva Ibbotson writes and creates characters. Her witches (and other people) can be good or bad, ugly or beautiful, kind or ghastly, but they are always funny. The children she writes are clever and earnest, and are given real responsibility and agency. I think this book would be excellent for any kid to read, they could really put themselves in Sumi or Daniel's shoes as they try to help their friend.